ElPozo Murcia Costa Cálida has discovered a silent leader in Dani Martínez. The Catalan coach has garnered the trust of the squad, which has regained the verve and luster expected of it following the departure of Javi Rodríguez. On recent games, the ham team showcased a defensive masterclass against their regional nemesis, Jimbee, clinching a derby victory on hostile turf by a narrow margin. In Cartagena, the rematch of the 2023 Spanish Cup semifinal in Granada, where Jaén Paraíso Interior secured a 7-4 win, will take place.
Martínez arrived in Murcia thanks to Javi Rodríguez, with whom he had previously collaborated at Industrias Santa Coloma as an assistant coach for three seasons. A graduate in CCAFyD from INEFC in Barcelona, he transitioned from being an interim solution alongside the sports coordinator, Vinicius Teixeria, to a potential long-term option, considering the team’s transformation with six consecutive matchdays undefeated, five wins and one draw, since assuming managerial duties just over a month ago.
Performance
The performance exhibited in the regional quarterfinal duel and advancement to the semifinals have further solidified Martínez’s position on the ElPozo Murcia bench. Dani Martínez emphasized that the only thing “that has changed is my demeanor, as if a different coach had taken over. Each one leads according to their character and approach to group leadership.” He firmly believes that his players “are here to become champions of the Spanish Cup.” When questioned about the team’s rapid transformation in just over a month, the Barcelona coach emphasized tactical continuity, stating, “There has been no revolution, nor have we made any drastic changes. We’ve simply been fine-tuning and rectifying the aspects demanded by our matches. We’ve envisioned strategies to enhance our cohesion and solidity, especially in crucial moments.”
After extending the home curse of Jimbee at the Palacio de los Deportes in Cartagena, Dani Martínez emphasized the essence and legacy of the ham team. “It’s a confirmation that the DNA of ElPozo Murcia is pivotal. Facing our perennial rivals in their own stadium was the perfect occasion to affirm that we’re a team poised to contend for titles. We’re united and competitive. We’ll always stand tall and fight to win,” he declared.
ElPozo Murcia hasn’t clinched a Spanish Cup victory in 14 years. On second semifinal in Cartagena, they’ll once again face Jaén Paraíso Interior. “Against the yellow-clad opponents once more. When this tournament arrives, they’re among the favorites. We anticipate a grueling encounter. Their coaching staff, led by Dani Rodríguez, excels in preparing for these tournaments. It’ll be a high-stakes clash, and we’re prepared to compete, always maintaining sportsmanship,” he concluded.
